Arts University Bournemouth’s (AUB) historic Palace Court Theatre is set to become a focal point for both environmental advocacy and local cinema this July, hosting two major public film events in the heart of Bournemouth.
As a dedicated town-centre space for creative collaboration and public engagement, the 1930s Art Deco venue will play host to a vital climate Emergency Briefing followed immediately the next evening by the prestigious launch of the Bournemouth International Film Festival 2026.
Both screenings will be followed by open community discussions with AUB Vice-Chancellor and CEO, Lisa Mann, joining the panel for both sessions.
The first event takes place on Wednesday 29 July, where the Palace Court will show two free, public screenings of The People's Emergency Briefing, a compelling 50-minute documentary by naturalist and campaigner Chris Packham.
The film features leading independent scientists outlining the stark realities of global climate change, its immediate implications for the UK, and the necessary collective actions required to mitigate its impact.
Both screenings will be followed by open community discussions. To ensure local decision-makers are part of the conversation, local MPs, councillors, and civic leaders have been personally invited to attend by BCP Councillor Andy Hadley.
The following evening, the theatre steps into the spotlight as the official host venue for the launch of the Bournemouth International Film Festival 2026.
The launch event promises an immersive evening of classic cinema and networking, starting with a special screening of Ken Loach's seminal 1969 British drama, Kes.
The screening will be followed by an insightful Q+A session and panel discussion, concluding with drinks and networking for filmmakers, students and film lovers.
Dan Cox, Head of Innovation and Knowledge Exchange at AUB, will welcome guests on behalf of AUB to open the festival.
“It’s fantastic to support the launch of the Bournemouth Film Festival this year," he says. “Hosting the opening event at the Palace Court Theatre is a wonderful way to deepen our relationship with this incredibly important local festival, whilst showcasing our unique town-centre venue to the region's creative community.”
